Why Alpacas?

The value of alpaca fiber is the economic basis of the future market for alpacas. An alpaca breeder with a small herd on small acreage can expect to harvest his animals’ fiber and sell it profitably. Most alpaca ranchers readily sell their fleece for $2 to $6 an ounce to local artisans. Each animal on average will produce five to eight pounds of fleece a year. Domestic fiber is commonly sold to cottage industries that circulate around hand spinning and weaving.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Producers outside of South America are beginning to organize wool co-operatives for the commercial processing of the fleece. Several cooperatives will collect your fiber, process it and then you are able to purchase items at a wholesale price.  Some cooperatives will also buy your fiber.